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If you’ve never been to a Favorite Things party, you’re in for such a treat. It’s part girls’ night, part gift exchange, and part excuse to pour a glass of wine and talk about the little things that make life feel lovely.
They usually happen around the holidays, which makes them even better. Everyone’s in that cozy, festive mood, and it’s such a fun way to spend time together without the pressure of a big event or elaborate plans.
What Is a Favorite Things Party?
A Favorite Things party is one of my favorite holiday gift exchange ideas because it’s personal, easy to plan, and full of surprises. Say there are six of you. Each person brings six of the same item, something you genuinely love and use all the time. During the party, you take turns sharing what you brought and why. By the end of the night, you go home with six new things, each one a favorite from one of your friends. It’s thoughtful, fun, and full of those “why didn’t I know about this sooner?” moments.
In general, I love discovering what my friends are doing. I want to know what they’re cooking for dinner, what’s always on their grocery order, what they put in their kids’ lunches, and what they keep in their handbag. I am the nosiest person you’ll ever meet, so a Favorite Things party combines everything I love: my friends, a celebration, and discovering something new.
Why You’ll Love It
There’s something so joyful about it. It’s not about expensive gifts or perfect wrapping; it’s about the delight of discovering something new. A lip balm that actually works. The coziest socks. A kitchen gadget you now can’t live without. The best ones always have this easy, festive energy with twinkly lights, snacks everyone actually wants to eat, and that comfortable, cozy buzz of conversation where you realize how good it feels to just be with your people.
Maybe it’s because life feels so serious sometimes, but nights like this remind me how grounding it is to share small joys. It’s simple and thoughtful and honestly kind of the perfect holiday tradition.
So if you’re headed to one this year, or planning to host, I thought it would be fun to share what I’d bring to a Favorite Things party. Gifts that are useful, beautiful, and genuinely loved in my own home.
Favorite Things Party Gift Ideas
Here are a few of my favorite things that would make perfect gifts for a night like this. They’re practical, fun to give, and guaranteed to be a hit.
1. Lake & Skye 11 11
he Lake & Skye 11 11 fragrance has been one of my absolute favorites this year. It’s soft, clean, and elegant, the kind of scent that makes people stop and ask what you’re wearing.
I’m really particular about fragrance. I’m not someone with a line of bottles sitting on my vanity. I wear this and Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede, and that’s it. I have the 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum, and it’s just about gone, which says a lot because I rarely finish a bottle of perfume.
For a Favorite Things party, I’d bring the 11 11 Purse Spray. It’s a well-priced gift that feels special, and it’s perfect for keeping in your bag or taking on the go.
Right now, you can save 25% off the entire site for their 10-year anniversary. No code needed; the discount applies automatically at checkout.
Shop Lake & Skye 11 11 Purse Spray
2. Hanni Splash Salve In-Shower Moisturizing Body Balm
This one has completely changed my post-shower routine. The Hanni Splash Salve is an in-shower body balm that drenches your skin in moisture while you’re still in the shower. You apply it after cleansing, rinse quickly, pat dry, and that’s it. No mess, no waiting for lotion to soak in, just soft, hydrated skin that feels incredible.
It’s rich but not greasy, with a clean, comforting scent called Sparkling Palmarosa that feels fresh and spa-like. I use the full-size jar, but the travel size would make the perfect Favorite Things party gift at $14.
I love this because it’s practical and a little bit luxurious, the kind of product you don’t realize you need until you try it. Everyone I’ve shared it with ends up ordering another jar for themselves.
3. Lolavie Powder Perfect Dry Shampoo
This little jar is incredible. I really need to wash my hair every day, but on the mornings when I’m in a pinch, this saves me. The Powder Perfect Dry Shampoo from Lolavie gives my hair lift and volume without that heavy, chalky feel most dry shampoos leave behind.
It’s a non-aerosol powder formula, so it feels lightweight and clean, and there’s no white residue or sticky buildup. It just absorbs oil, refreshes your hair, and somehow makes it look freshly styled.
I’ve tried so many dry shampoos over the years, and this one is hands down the best. It’s small, travel-friendly, and a perfect under-$25 pick for a Favorite Things party.
Shop Lolavie Powder Perfect Dry Shampoo
4. Lawless Forget Filler Overnight Lip Plumping Mask
If there’s one thing I’m consistent about, it’s keeping my lips hydrated. This time of year, I’ve been using the Lawless Forget Filler Overnight Lip Plumping Mask, and it’s so good. I put it on before bed, and by morning my lips feel soft, smooth, and a little fuller.
It’s rich without being sticky, has just a hint of shine, and makes your lips look healthy and cared for. I love that it actually does what it claims. It’s a small luxury that feels special, and at under $25, it’s the perfect little beauty treat to share with friends.
Shop Lawless Forget Filler Overnight Lip Plumping Mask
5. JEKOSEN Crystal Martini Cocktail Glasses
These are hands down one of my favorite things I’ve bought this year. They’re not from some fancy home store, just Amazon, and they’re the best. The JEKOSEN Crystal Martini Glasses look and feel high-end but are affordable and practical.
I really hate tiny martini glasses, the ones where you can’t fit a full pour, or you can but you spill it everywhere. These are a great size, beautifully shaped, and sturdy enough that you don’t feel like you’re going to break one every time you take a sip.
They’re dishwasher safe and versatile too. I use them for cocktails, mocktails, and even desserts when I want things to look nice without trying too hard.
Shop JEKOSEN Crystal Martini Cocktail Glasses
6. Crown Affair The Towel
Sixty dollars for a hair towel sounds ridiculous, I know. But this one is actually worth it. The Crown Affair Towel is made from a soft microfiber waffle knit that cuts down on frizz, helps your hair dry faster, and feels so good to use.
I’ve tried plenty of cheaper versions, but nothing comes close to this. It’s lightweight, stays put, and doesn’t pull or rough up your hair. Every time I use it, my hair dries smoother and looks better, which is reason enough for me.
7. Crown Affair The Comb No. 001
If you want something a little less expensive but still fabulous, try The Comb No. 001 from Crown Affair. Using a comb on wet hair is much more gentle than a brush, and this one glides through without pulling or snagging.
It looks chic sitting on your counter and feels luxe every time you use it.
Shop Crown Affair The Comb No. 001
8. Something Sweet Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
This cookie dough is so good. It’s the Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough from Something Sweet, and it’s become a little obsession in our house.
Each bag comes with pre-portioned dough you can bake straight from the freezer, which I love because you can make just one or two at a time. The flavor is rich and buttery with that perfect balance of salty and sweet.
You get two bags for $35, so it’s actually a great deal. I like having them in the freezer for when you want something warm and homemade without the effort.
Shop Something Sweet Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
9. Juliet Sauvignon Blanc
This is my favorite easy wine to have on hand. The Juliet Sauvignon Blanc comes in a recyclable tube that’s basically a very chic version of boxed wine. It looks good on your counter, takes up no space in the fridge, and somehow tastes better than half the bottles I’ve bought this year.
It’s bright, crisp, and refreshing — think Meyer lemon and ripe pear with a clean, dry finish. Each container holds about ten glasses, so it’s perfect for hosting or keeping for casual weeknights.
At $35, it’s a great value, and the packaging makes it fun to bring to a girls’ night or a Favorite Things party.
10. Taja Collection Fancy Matches
These are such a great little gift idea for under $30. The Fancy Matches from Taja Collection come in a sleek holder that you can customize with a name, word, or short phrase, which makes them feel personal without being over the top.
They look beautiful sitting next to a candle or on a coffee table, and they’re the kind of thing people always notice and ask about. It’s simple, chic, and thoughtful, exactly the kind of favorite thing I love to give.
Shop Taja Collection Fancy Matches
11. Weighted Sleep Mask
You’re going to see every influencer and their mother singing the praises of the Nodpod sleep mask, and I’m here to tell you that I had that one and replaced it with this. This Weighted Sleep Mask from Amazon is far superior, especially if you’re like me and toss and turn.
People assume the Nodpod is a sleep mask, but it’s really more of a weighted blanket for your face. It’s meant to help you fall asleep, not stay asleep, and it almost always ends up sliding off during the night. It’s also not great for travel or airplanes.
The YFONG version, on the other hand, stays put, blocks out every bit of light, and gives just the right amount of pressure. It’s under $20 and might honestly be my favorite buy of the year.
Want to round out the gift? Add my favorite sleep gummies from lemme. (Use the code TWDL and save 15%).
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